Liverpool told they "don’t need" Philippe Coutinho despite recent goal-shy form

Anfield legend John Barnes has advised Liverpool not to sign Philippe Coutinho despite the club's recent failings in front of goal.

The Reds have scored just one goal in their last three Premier League games, drawing with West Brom and Newcastle and losing to Southampton.

Liverpool's poor run has cut their lead at the top of the table almost entirely, and it has raised serious questions of their out-of-form forwards.

The first-choice trio of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane simply hasn't been firing, while there has been a lack of service from midfield.

Recent performances have been crying out for a player in the ilk of Barcelona star Coutinho, who was a creative force during five seasons on Merseyside.

But former Liverpool forward Barnes insists signing the Brazilian playmaker would not solve the Reds' problems.

He told BonusCodeBets : “Well, when we had a Coutinho-type of player we finished 20-odd points off the top.

“So, although a Coutinho-type player may chip in with goals, which would create a completely different style of play, as a result the front three would score less.

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“Personally, I do not think it works with a midfield player scoring goals when the front three want to continue scoring the same level of goals as they’re used to as it will uproot the balance.

“And, Liverpool have managed to create a great balance and harmony amongst the players so I would not recommend to change that any time soon.

“If Coutinho came back, he would most likely be brilliant, but I don't think the front three would be scoring as many goals, nor would they have the same impact, which a team like Liverpool needs.

“At the end of the day, the balance is the most important thing for a team. And at the moment, the balance is perfect.”

Coutinho has scored three goals and laid on two assists in 14 games for Barcelona this season, but is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.

Would you like to see Philippe Coutinho in a Liverpool shirt again? Have your say in the comments.

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